- Credibility:
WRIGLEYVILLE — The Cubs’ proposal for its own sportsbook is moving forward after a key city panel signed off on plans for a two-story addition to Wrigley Field to house the betting operations.
The Commission on Chicago Landmarks voted unanimously Thursday to approve the Cubs’ plans, which include building the 22,350-square-foot structure on the southeast corner of Wrigley Field.
The triangular addition also would have a roof deck, according to Larry Shure, a staffer with the Department of Planning and Development. The building would run along Sheffield Avenue and Addison Street, the original home of the Harry Caray statue and more recently the home of the Captain Morgan Club.
When finished, the facility would house the future DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field, according to Crain’s Chicago Business. It’s part of a sponsorship deal the team made last year with DraftKings to bring gambling to game days at Wrigley Field.
But in order for the facility to open, the team also needs City Council to pass an ordinance allowing sports betting inside the city’s major stadiums, including Wrigley Field and the United Center. Ald. Walter Burnett (27th) introduced that ordinance last month, but it was sent to City Council’s Rules Committee where it remains.
The sportsbook is part of a years-long plan to restore and expand Wrigley Field previously approved by the landmarks commission in 2013.
The Cubs are also reviewing the proposal with the National Park Service, since Wrigley Field is a National Historic Landmark.
Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) said he supported the addition and said it would help “breathe new life into [Wrigley Field] for the next 100 years.”
The team hopes to open the sportsbook by the end of 2022 and it would take about a year to build, according to the Crain’s report.
Jake Wittich is a Report for America corps member covering Lakeview, Lincoln Park and LGBTQ communities across the city for Block Club Chicago.
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